PGWP Requirements for 2025: Guide to a Successful Application

If you’ve recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution and are eager to stay in Canada for work experience, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is your gateway to doing so. However, before you apply, it’s crucial to understand the requirements for the PGWP in 2025. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the key requirements you need to meet in order to successfully apply for your PGWP.

Step 1: Complete a Program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

To qualify for the PGWP, you must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Your institution must be recognized by the Canadian government and must offer programs that are eligible for the PGWP. Only programs from eligible institutions count toward PGWP requirements, so make sure your school is on the approved list.

Step 2: Full-Time Student Status Throughout Your Program

You must have maintained full-time student status during your program. This means you were enrolled as a full-time student in each academic session of your program. If you were a part-time student for any reason during your studies, you may not meet the eligibility requirements for a PGWP.

Step 3: Program Length Requirement

Your study program must be at least 8 months long. Programs that are shorter than 8 months will not qualify for the PGWP. Additionally, the program must lead to a valid degree, diploma, or certificate. Make sure your program is of sufficient length and recognized as eligible for a PGWP.

Step 4: Exclusion of Language Programs

If you completed an English or French as a second language program, you will not qualify for the PGWP. Only programs that result in a degree, diploma, or certificate are eligible for the PGWP. Therefore, language programs are excluded from the application.

Step 5: New Language Proficiency Requirements (Effective November 1, 2024)

As of November 1, 2024, new language proficiency requirements will be in effect for PGWP applicants. You must meet the following requirements based on your level of education:

• University graduates: Must achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in French.

• College graduates: Must achieve at least CLB 5 in French.

Make sure you meet the language requirements to avoid any issues with your application.

Step 6: Specific Fields of Study (Effective November 1, 2024)

Starting November 1, 2024, certain fields of study will be prioritized for PGWP eligibility. These include:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

• Healthcare

• Agriculture

• Trades

• Transportation

For international student graduates of colleges who applied for their initial study permits after November 1, 2024, new field of study requirements came into effect last year. Under these field of study requirements, college graduates must have graduated from a program linked to a labour market shortage in order to be eligible for a PGWP.

As of March, 2025, graduates from college bachelor's programs no longer need to meet this field of study requirement.

Graduates of any other college, polytechnic, or non-university program are still subject to field of study requirements, as are graduates from university programs that are not bachelor's, master's, or doctoral programs.

Step 7: Apply Within 180 Days of Graduation

You must apply for your PGWP within 180 days of receiving your final transcript or completion letter. If you miss this deadline, you risk having your application rejected. Be sure to gather all required documents and submit your application promptly.

Step 8: Valid Study Permit

At the time of your application, you must have held a valid study permit while studying in Canada. If your study permit expired, you will need to restore your status before applying for the PGWP.

Step 9: Proof of Funds (If Applicable)

In some cases, you may need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family members during your stay in Canada. This is particularly important if you don’t already have a job lined up or if you're not applying with a job offer.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a great opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience in Canada and potentially apply for permanent residency. By meeting these PGWP requirements for 2025, you’ll be on the right track to applying for your work permit and starting your career in Canada.

At Open Canada, we help guide you through the entire process—ensuring that you meet all requirements and submit a strong application.

📌 Book a Consultation Now and let us help you take the next step in your Canadian journey!

PGWP Requirements for 2025: Guide to a Successful Application